What to Do When You Can No Longer Care for an Elderly Parent
There’s no other way to say it; being a caregiver is a full-time job. But for many adult children of senior parents, it’s a job they’ve had to take on – adding extra work and stress to their already busy lives. Now that some 15 million Americans provide unpaid care to an older adult, it’s time to give this issue a more serious look. Read on for our guidance on navigating a change in senior care for your aging loved one.
How Caregivers Can Care for Themselves
It isn’t easy for seniors to concede that they need more intensive care – but there’s no sense in sacrificing your happiness and health to keep up caregiving duties. You deserve to be a priority too. Take a look at the tips in this infographic the National Institute on Aging.
Examine Your Senior Care Options
Finding extra help is the best thing you can do for yourself and your loved one. But what kind of care should you choose? If your loved one is someone who needs a helping hand to complete vital daily tasks – like bathing, dressing and eating – assisted living could be the right choice for them. But if they have Alzheimer’s or another form of cognitive impairment, memory care could be right for them.
Other Common Questions
- What do you do when an elderly parent refuses needed care? It happens – and of course, you can’t force your aging parent or loved one to seek extra care. If you’re already providing a lot of support, be patient with your loved one and share how you’re feeling. They may change their mind once they understand how being a caregiver is affecting you.
- Are you legally responsible for your elderly parents? In some states, you may be legally responsible for the costs of elder care when your parent can’t afford it themselves.
- What do you do when elderly parent can’t walk? Lack of mobility doesn’t just complicate day-to-day activities – it also makes senior care more challenging. When your loved one is unable to walk or stand on their own, it’s likely time to bring in professional assistance to make sure they’re safer from injury.
Find Answers at Oakley Courts
At Oakley Courts, your loved one will be surrounded by a network of support along with amenities to make each day better. And we have the experience to help guide your family through the decision-making process – so when you’re ready to take the next step, don’t hesitate to reach out.